Bhimashankar Temple Travel Guide

Bhimashankar Temple Travel Guide

Well known as a spiritual place, Bhimashankar is located in the mountain ranges of the Western Ghtas in Pune. It is the abode of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and lies submerged in dense forest. It is an apt place for all nature lovers and for people interested in trekking. One can also come across a large variety of birds here. The place derived its name from the river Bhima and the origin of this name is associated with a historical legend of Lord Shankara. The place is situated at an altitude of 3250 feet amidst the dense forest that spans an area of 1000 m. The vast stretches of greeneries are what render it with a beauty unparallel. According to legends the thick forest was the trekking place of the Pandavas of the Indian epic Mahabharata.

The Bhimashankar temple is a pilgrim’s paradise which draws a large number of tourists every year. It is a Shiva temple which comes alive in all its colours during the festival of Mahashivaratri. Perched at the extreme end of the Sahayadri Ranges the place offers an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding areas. The Bhimashamkar temple is comprised of architectural splendour both of the old and the new age. It is built basically in the Nagara style of architecture springing an ambience of modesty and gracefulness. The temple was built by Nana Phadnavis amidst the dense forests. The temple has been beautifully carved besides the river Bhima the contribution of which makes it a sight worth savouring. There are a number of small temples within its confines of which the Shani temple, Kamalaja and the Mokshakund thirtha are worth a stopover. Located near the temple is the Nagfani mountain peak which offers tourist a spectacular view of the landscape below.

Other places of attractions in and around Bhimashankar are the Sahyadri Wildlife Sanctuary and various trekking places like the Sahyadri.

Situated at a height of 2100 to 3800 feet, the Sahyadri Wildlife Sanctuary is the abode of a number of rare flora and fauna. It houses the jumbo size squirrel and plethora of animals and birds. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 120 sq km in the Sahyadri ranges.

The Sahyadri hill is a great adventurous spot that offers tourist ample opportunities to trek. The stony mountains and hills make it an apt place for hiking, trekking and rock climbing. 

 Bhimashankar can be reached by road, railway or airways. The nearest airport and railway is located at Pune while through roads it is well connected with Mumbai and Pune. The place provides a number of high quality as well as cheap accommodation facilities where tourist can enjoy a good stay. 

Last Updated: 29/03/2012